Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Lawyer

Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Attorney

Resisting arrest can mean the use of force or the use of a weapon against an officer trying to take a suspect into custody. In the state of Rhode Island resisting arrest can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony and is punishable by law.

§ 12-7-10 Resisting legal or illegal arrest. – (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to use force or any weapon in resisting a legal or an illegal arrest by a peace officer, if the person has reasonable ground to believe that he or she is being arrested and that the arrest is being made by a peace officer.
(b) Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500) or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by both fine and imprisonment.

Rhode Island Penalties for Resisting Arrest

Depending on the severity of the actions by the resistor this offense can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. Although the penalties may vary the general consequences include imprisonment, imposed fines, probation and enforced community service. Resisting arrest is punishable by up to one year in prison and carries fines of up to $1000.

The actions of resisting arrest misdemeanors are composed of running and hiding from law enforcement officers. While the actions of resisting arrest at a felony level must include some act or threat of a violent nature toward the arresting officer.

Our Rhode Island law office has handled several criminal defense cases and always represent our clients with aggressive strategies on their behalf. We understand the hardships faced when charged with criminal offenses such as resisting arrest. We also know that many things can unfold in the intense moment of being arrested against ones will. Don’t leave your future to chance. If you or a loved one has been charged with resisting arrest contact our law office today. Call 401-573-2265 immediately to speak with Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Attorney Chad Bank.